The MPLAB XC32++ supports all of Microchip’s 32-bit PIC32 microcontrollers (MCUs). This compiler enables designers to develop and re-use C++ projects by making all of Microchip’s C language extensions available in an environment that is compliant with the majority of C++98 and C++2003 ANSI standards. Additionally, the Free MPLAB XC32++ Compiler includes Dinkumware standard C, C++, and template libraries.

The Free version of the MPLAB XC32++ Compiler – available for download now at www.microchip.com/get/10E7 – has no time or memory limits, and can be used in commercial applications.

For users who demand best-in-class optimizations or a network server license, the MPLAB XC32++ PRO Workstation License ($1,445, part # SW006023-3) and MPLAB XC32++ PRO Network Server License ($1,845, part # SW006023-3N) are also available today, at www.microchip.com/get/R7TC. Existing licensees of Microchip’s MPLAB XC32 compilers can add the XC32++ option at $595 or $695, for a workstation or network-server license, respectively.

“With the Free MPLAB XC32++, Microchip is offering a completely free C/C++ compiler solution with unlimited code generation,” said Derek Carlson, Microchip’s vice president of Development Tools. “Our optimizing C++ compiler includes the industry-recognized Dinkumware libraries. This combination is ideal for a broad range of applications, from the industrial to the academic environments.”

For additional information, contact any Microchip sales representative or authorized worldwide distributor, or visit Microchip’s Web site at www.microchip.com/get/10E7. To purchase products mentioned in this press release, go to microchipDIRECT or contact one of Microchip’s authorized distribution partners.

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Does anyone else find it somewhat offensive that Microchip has taken the free and open source gcc toolchain, crippled it by disallowing optimisations, and is then telling people how wonderful it is that they are giving you it for zero cost?
What they are doing here is within their legal rights under the gcc licence (the GPL), as they do provide access to the source for the compiler and you can re-compile it yourself with optimisations enabled. And they do have the legal right to charge money for or restrict the use of their proprietary libraries.
But to me it feels very much that they have taken the enormous amount of free work done in gcc, and are promoting it and selling it as though it was their own work - while giving nothing back to gcc.
Maybe I've got the wrong impression here (and as I say, I don't think they've broken the letter of the licences here - just the spirit of them), but that's my gut reaction.